How to Get Rid of Pigeon Nest? Useful Techniques
Pigeons are nice to see flying around across the city. However, it can get problematic when you see them building nests around your place. You need to get rid of this but in a humane way though.
So, how to get rid of pigeon nests? To get rid of pigeon nests, you need to make sure that there is no food source for them. Once you ensure this, you must clean the space thoroughly. However, this will not only stop them as you need to use repellents and deterrents as well.
Now, this just gives a brief about what to do. But to know more in detail about the repellents and all, you need to read along till the end.
So, dive into the main part right away!
Interested in similar topics on pigeon habitat:
Why Is Getting Rid of Pigeon Nests Important?
It is nice and wholesome to watch pigeons flying around. But it can get problematic with nests at your home. So, getting rid of pigeon nests is important for several reasons, as given below.
01. Health and Safety
Pigeon droppings can harbor harmful pathogens and parasites. This can pose health risks to humans, including diseases like histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis.
Nest removal helps reduce the accumulation of droppings and the associated health hazards.
02. Property Damage
Nests and droppings of pigeons can cause significant damage to buildings and structures. Nest materials can clog drainage systems.
On the other hand, acidic pigeon droppings can corrode surfaces and lead to costly repairs.
03. Hygiene and Cleanliness
Pigeon nests can be messy, and their droppings can create unsightly and unsanitary conditions. Removing nests contributes to a cleaner and more hygienic environment.
04. Preventing Future Infestations
Remaining pigeon nests will inspire them to return and continue breeding in the same location. Even if you push away the pigeons, the remaining nest will get them back again.
05. Reducing Noise and Disturbance
Pigeons can be noisy, especially during their mating and nesting seasons. These noise disturbances are caused by cooing, flapping wings, and other pigeon behaviors.
06. Preserving Aesthetics
Pigeon nests can detract from the aesthetics of buildings and public spaces. That means pigeons’ nests might make your place look bizarre.
Removing nests helps maintain the visual appeal of the environment.
07. Legal Compliance
In some areas, there may be local regulations or ordinances that require the removal of pigeon nests.
This mainly applies to certain structures or public areas in a specific city for specific reasons.
You can read our article about “Pigeon Habitat“
Is a Pigeon Nest Good Luck or Bad Luck?
The idea of whether a pigeon nest brings good or bad luck is a cultural belief and can vary among different societies and individuals. In some cultures, pigeons and doves are considered symbols of peace, love, and positive omens.
However, in others, they may be associated with different meanings or superstitions. Take a look here to know more about it.
01. Positive Symbolism
Many cultures see pigeons optimistically as symbols of peace and love. The sight of a pigeon may be considered lucky or a sign of good things to come.
People think this can indicate possible happiness, prosperity, and peace in the family.
02. Neutral Symbolism
In some cultures, pigeons may not hold any specific symbolic meaning. The presence of a pigeon nest is neither considered lucky nor unlucky.
That means people in some cultures believe that it is completely superstitious to have any faith in pigeon nests.
03. Negative Symbolism
In a few cultures, people see pigeons negatively. Some people may believe that pigeons are messengers of bad news.
To be precise, people think it is a sign of negativity when pigeons build their nests in a corner of the house.
Should I Hire a Professional Pest Control Service to Remove a Pigeon’s Nest?
Pigeons look harmless and they are actually friendly in general. However, removing a nest of pigeons is not a very common task.
It is generally recommended to hire a professional pest control service to remove a pigeon’s nest. Here is why:
01. Expertise
Pest control professionals have the knowledge to assess the extent of the pigeon problem. They are able to determine the most effective removal methods.
02. Safety
Handling pigeons and their nests can be risky, as pigeons can carry diseases and parasites. Professionals are trained in safe and humane removal techniques.
Note that the diseases transmitted by pigeons can be deadlier than you think.
03. Preventing Harm to Birds
Professional pest control services are usually well-versed in bird-friendly methods. They can ensure that the removal process is humane and does not harm adult pigeons or chicks.
04. Legal Compliance
In some areas, pigeons could have legal protection. Note that there may be regulations governing their removal. Professionals can help ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
05. Disease Prevention
Pigeon droppings can harbor harmful pathogens. Professionals can safely clean and disinfect areas affected by droppings to reduce health risks.
06. Long-Term Solutions
Pest control experts can recommend and implement long-term solutions to prevent pigeons from returning to the same location. This may include deterrents, habitat modification, or exclusion methods.
07. Reducing Property Damage
Professionals can assess and repair any structural damage caused by pigeons and their nests. They can give you a complete guideline of what and how to fix the problem.
They should provide a comprehensive plan. This should address the specific needs of your situation, including removal, cleanup, and preventive measures.
Are There Any Legal Implications for Removing a Pigeon Nest?
The legality of removing a pigeon’s nest can vary depending on your location and local regulations. In some areas, it is fine for health concerns.
On the other hand, some areas do not entertain this. So, there are several important considerations about this, as given below.
01. Local Regulations
It’s essential to check local laws and regulations regarding the removal of pigeon nests. Some areas may have specific rules governing the removal of bird nests, including pigeons, to protect wildlife.
02. Protected Species
Pigeons are not typically considered protected species. However, dealing with a different bird species protected by law may have legal restrictions on nest removal.
03. Humane Methods
When removing nests, it’s essential to use humane methods that avoid causing harm to adult birds or chicks. Nest removal should be conducted with care and consideration for the well-being of the birds.
04. Exclusion vs. Removal
In some cases, it may be more appropriate to use exclusion methods rather than nest removal. Exclusion methods are often more acceptable from a legal and ethical perspective.
05. Permits
In some situations, such as dealing with protected bird species, you may need a permit. That means you need to get authorization from local wildlife authorities to remove nests legally.
06. Professional Assistance
You might be unsure about the legal implications or the specific bird species involved. In that case, you need to seek guidance from local wildlife authorities.
You can consult with a professional pest control service that specializes in bird control. Note that it’s always a good idea to check with your local wildlife or environmental agency before taking any action.
This will give you 100% assurance about the legal implications of the place.
What Steps Should I Take to Prevent Nests?
Preventing pigeon nests from forming in or around your property involves making the environment less attractive to pigeons and removing access to potential nesting sites.
Here are steps you can take to prevent pigeon nests:
01. Cleanliness and Maintenance
Keep your property clean and free of food scraps, which can attract pigeons. Regularly clean up fallen seeds or food from bird feeders. Make sure to dispose of trash properly in sealed containers.
02. Remove Food Sources
Remove or secure outdoor pet food dishes. Store trash in secure containers with lids. Clean barbecue grills to remove food residue. You must not keep any sweet food residue as that would attract pigeons.
03. Bird Feeders
If you have bird feeders, use pigeon-resistant feeders designed to deter larger birds. You also need to position feeders where pigeons have limited access.
04. Block Access to Roosting Sites
Use physical barriers like bird spikes, netting, or wire mesh. These would block pigeons from roosting on ledges, eaves, or balconies. Seal off openings, crevices, and vents where pigeons might enter or nest.
05. Deterrents
Install visual deterrents, such as reflective objects like Mylar balloons or wind chimes. Use audible deterrents like ultrasonic devices to discourage pigeons.
06. Predator Decoys
Place fake owls or hawks in areas where pigeons roost. Pigeons may avoid these areas, believing they are at risk from potential predators.
07. Habitat Modification
Trim trees and vegetation near buildings to reduce perching and nesting sites. Install metal or plastic barriers on rafters and beams in lofts or warehouses to prevent nesting.
Are There Any Specific Products or Devices that Can Help Get Rid of Pigeon Nests?
Bird Spikes- These are a physical deterrent that prevents pigeons from landing where they like to nest or roost. These spikes make it uncomfortable for pigeons to perch.
Bird Netting – Bird netting creates a barrier that prevents pigeons from accessing specific areas.
Bird Wire Systems – These systems consist of wires strung across surfaces at intervals.
Ultrasonic Bird Repellents – Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sound waves. This irritates and stops pigeons from entering the place.
Visual Deterrents – Visual deterrents can startle pigeons and make them avoid certain areas.
Bird Gel or Repellent Sprays – Bird gel or repellent sprays create a sticky or uncomfortable surface that pigeons dislike.
Predator Decoys – Fake predators like owls or hawks can discourage pigeons from settling at a place.
Electric Shock Tracks – These tracks deliver a mild electric shock to pigeons when they land on them.
Sonic Bird Repellents – These devices emit sounds or distress calls of predatory birds, which stops pigeons from coming around.
What Are Some Effective Methods to Remove a Pigeon’s Nest?
Removing a pigeon’s nest is not always easy. Here is how you can do it easily and effectively.
Wait until Fledging
Waiting until chicks fledge is good so that you don’t have to separate them from their parents. When the chicks become young, they will fly away, and you can simply remove the nest.
Eliminating the Nest
Carefully and gently remove the nest using your gloved hands. Place the nest and any associated materials (feathers, twigs) into a plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly and put it away.
What Home Remedy Gets Rid of Pigeons?
If you want to remove pigeons using a home remedy, you can use any type of citrus fruit. Lemons and citrons work the best for it. You can keep the peel or a bit portion of these fruits to repel pigeons.
Note that you can also use vinegar for this. Mix 2 teaspoons of vinegar in a bowl of water to keep it around the place where there are pigeons. This will get rid of pigeons very quickly.
How Long Does It Take for a Pigeon to Be Removed?
The time to remove pigeons from a specific location varies on several factors. Here are some general considerations:
1. Assessment
Initially, it’s important to assess the extent of the pigeon problem. Determine how many pigeons are present and where they are roosting or nesting. The reasons for their presence, like food sources and shelter are also factors.
2. Deterrent Methods
Implementing bird deterrent methods begins to discourage pigeons from the area. The effectiveness of these methods may become apparent within a few days to weeks.
3. Behavioral Changes
Pigeons may need time to change their roosting or nesting habits. This can take from a week to several weeks in general. They adjust to the presence of deterrents or changes in their environment.
4. Regular Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance and monitoring are essential. Pigeons are persistent birds, and even after initial deterrence, they may attempt to return. Regularly inspect and maintain deterrents.
5. Environmental Factors
The time it takes to remove pigeons can also be influenced by environmental factors. If there are abundant food sources or nearby nesting sites, pigeons may be more likely to return.
Frequently Asked Questions
01. What scent will keep pigeons away?
Any type of strong smell of spices can keep away pigeons. Note that vinegar can work well for this too. Fruits that are citrus can be helpful for it as well. You can just spill some of its drops to keep pigeons away.
2. What is the best deterrent for pigeons?
It is best to use methods and techniques at home by yourself to stop pigeons from messing up. You can build practical traps and use repellents as deterrents for pigeons.
3. How long will a pigeon sit in a nest?
A pigeon can sit in a nest from 25 days to around a month. Usually, they stay in a nest for a few days before laying eggs. Once they lay eggs, they also incubate and hatch eggs, which takes around 21 to 24 days.
The Final Words
Now you have got the answer to how to get rid of pigeon nest! We believe you no longer have issues with getting out of this problem.
So, coming to an end, here is a small but useful tip for you. Try not to put anything sweet like honey around your place. This will attract pigeons to come and build multiple nests around the place.
As we conclude our article, we hope you will stay in contact with us for further queries. You can reach out to us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Have a great day!
References:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226616110_Protecting_buildings_against_feral_pigeons
- https://www.fantasticpestcontrol.co.uk/pigeons/how-to-keep-pigeons-away-house/
- https://www.nbcenvironment.co.uk/about-us/articles/the-guide-to-the-removal-of-pigeons-and-their-nests/
